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Rogue traders

Information on how to buy wisely and safely from doorstep sellers in Suffolk.

Many people who sell items on the doorstep are legitimate traders, but unfortunately some are not.

Suffolk Trading Standards are providing the following top 10 tips on how to deal with doorstep sellers:

  1. Never sign or agree to anything on the spot.
  2. Check the trader’s identity. Always ask for an identity card and look up the organisation to check the salesperson’s identity is genuine.
  3. Be wary of special offers or warnings about your home.
  4. Always shop around for the best price and use a Trusted Trader.
  5. Read the small print. Always read documents carefully before you sign them and make sure you fully understand your rights.
  6. Double check the facts. Make sure you fully understand the total costs of the transaction –including estimates, delivery and installation and the arrangements for after-sales servicing.
  7. Talk to someone you trust for a second opinion.
  8. Don’t hand over a cash deposit. Avoid handing over money before work is started. A reliable trader will never ask you to do this.
  9. Think very carefully before you agree to a trader starting any work straight away. If you agree to have any work done or goods delivered within the 14 day cooling-off period, you may have to pay if you later change your mind and cancel the contract.
  10. Trust your instincts. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Report doorstep traders

If you are contacted by a doorstep traders or are aware of any operating in your residential area, report it to us by calling 0808 223 1133.

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